Creamy Leek and Bacon Casserole Gratin

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375 Fahrenheit).
2. Clean and slice the white and light green parts of the leek into thin rounds.
3. Chop the smoked bacon strips into small pieces.
4. Melt the unsalted butter in a medium skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic clove and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the sliced leeks to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until the bacon is lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
8. Sprinkle the all purpose flour over the leek and bacon mixture and stir well to coat.
9. Gradually For in the whole milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
10. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
11. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper to taste.
12. Transfer the leek and bacon mixture with sauce into a small ovenproof casserole dish.
13. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
14. Sprinkle bread crumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
15. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
16. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.